Understanding Wire
Well, today is the day to start telling everyone about wire, I can only say that is an amazing media that creates beautiful things. I think the first thing is to understand the nature of wire, it has a memory and if you over work the wire it will become weak and break. In my journey of understanding this media I have found that it is best to let the wire do its own thing, don't force the issue by trying to control it, let it move at will, it will give you great soft lines and contours with beautiful organic results.
Let's see now, what will you need to do a project? Well, first you need an object that you wish to wrap, after you determine what you would like to transform you would need to measure the object in question. You do this by using painters tape which is very low tack, wrap the object with it and remove, now you know how much wire you will need, but don't forget to add a few extra inches to do the hanging bezel and to secure the bezel to the pendent. I forgot to mention that the best wire to use is dead soft if you're using sterling silver, it is very easy to work with even in the bigger gauges. You will also need a pair of needle nose players, flat nose players, wire cutters, and a permanent marker.
I am hoping to make a video to show you 3 different techniques of wire work. With these weaving techniques you will be able to wrap anything you like, shark teeth, fossils, etc. Also you will be able to weave amazing chains to accompany your pendant. So go and look for something to wrap and begin creating things that will bring you a sense of accomplishment.
WARNING: Wire work is highly addictive
PS: Give me your feedback if you'd like to see more wire working techniques!
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